Mobile-based Gayfer's anchored the original PLAZA with a 1-level store. It was dedicated, along with the mall, in September 1963. 

Drawing from Mercantile Stores Company, Incorporated Annual Report 1973

The mall's original South Court included lush tropical landscaping and a majestic water feature.

Photo from S. Crocker Company, Incorporated

In a second South Court view, the Gayfer's mall entrance is in the background. On the left is Hobbyville and Gordon's Jewelers. On the right, a Walgreen Drug store entrance.

Photo from Ocean Springs Distributor

At the time of a circa-1963 physical layout, the shoreline shopopolis spanned approximately 395,400 leasable square feet. There were three major stores; Gayfer's, Godchaux's ["Gawd-showz"] and J.J. Newberry and a parking area with room for 3,200 autos.

EDGEWATER PLAZA SHOPPING CITY TENANTS 1963:

GAYFER'S (with Beauty Salon, portrait studio and fur storage) / GODCHAUX'S / J.J. NEWBERRY 5 & 10 (with William Talley House Cafeteria) / JITNEY JUNGLE FOOD STORE /  Baker's Qualicraft Shoes / DuSay's For Pets / Edgewater Music Center / Edgewater Photo Shop / French Cleaners & Laundry / Gordon's Jewelers / Gryder's Shoes / Gulf National Bank / Halpern's Fabrics / Hobbyville / Kinney Shoes / Lerner Shops ladies' wear / McVadon Portrait Studio / National Shirt Shops / Neal's Barber Shop / Texaco Service Station (outparcel) / W.L. Holcomb & Associates Real Estate & Insurance / Walgreen Drug (with Walgreen Grill)